* Apaul of Tartarus, is the human author of the following epistles of the Noose Testament: Pro-man’s, I&II Carnalians, Galivants, Effusians, Flippantians, Confusions, I&II Thatserroneous, I&II Apathy, Fritus, Fleement, and Beshrews (Some question Apaul’s authorship of this epistle. Martin Loser sums up this debate–as well as any: “Only God knows or cares.”)

Apaul of Tartarus, to the Church Council at Jerusalem, October 67 A.D., grapes and peas to you–the best of Cain’s offering to you! Don’t you think that it is about time that you fired Paul? The man is a walking reproach to the cause! Is there no one there in Jerusalem spiritual enough to see that there are seven reasons why he should quit?

PAUL’S PREACHING
Well, Paul never was a Simon Peter. Now Peter could draw crowds! Paul has had to resort to house to house ministry! “I have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house.” What type of a preacher doesn’t preach in a church? Preaching on street corners and public places is so demeaning to our religion! What does it say to the hoi polloi that a preacher doesn’t even get invited to preach in real places of worship? I ask you!
As you know, Paul claims to be an apostle. Many of us would dispute that claim. Some others say Paul is an evangelist–not a pastor. If that is so, then where are the big crowds for Paul? Has Paul ever filled a stadium like Gilly Brayam does?. Where are the decision cards? Where are the baptisms? Isn’t it obvious to you that “little” Paul is running on empty? He is past his prime!

PAUL’S PROBLEMS
If Paul is such a man of God, then why is he having so much trouble? II Corinthians 11:23-28 “Are they ministers of Christ? I speak as a fool I am more;…in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft. Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches.”

PAUL’S PERSONNEL
If he is such a big man of God, then why do people leave him? “At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me.” II Timothy 4:16 Why couldn’t he even get along with Barnabas–the son of consolation! Can’t he compromise–a little? Does he know what “tact” is? Has he never ever heard of situational ethics? Does he need to be so confrontational? HE EVEN WITHSTOOD PETER TO THE FACE–and over a measly doctrine. Doesn’t Paul know that doctrine divides? It’s luv, L-O-V-E, that unites!

PAUL’S POVERTY
Can’t the Jerusalem Church Council Mission Board buy him a nice suit or something? What do you think that the educated–professional people–are going to think about Paul. Do you think that a banker–or any professional person–would sit under his ministry? No. They’ll go to a prestige church and sit under an eloquent speaker.
And, just what kind of an example is he for the young preachers? I tell you–it is a bad reflection on Christ and on the council!

PAUL’S PUNINESS.
II Corinthians 10:10, “For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; BUT HIS BODILY PRESENCE IS WEAK, AND HIS SPEECH CONTEMPTIBLE.” He looks BAD! And, he is B-O-R-I-N-G! Even Peter has trouble understanding everything that he is writing. Anyone can write–under inspiration of God–you’ve got to have talent to be a good public speaker.

PAUL’S PERSECUTION
He is stirring up more and more trouble with Rome. Mark my words. It’s going to come down on our heads–your heads. Ever heard of Nero? He is an ambitious man. He is just looking for a issue to demagogue. There’s nothing more that he would like than a excuse to get rid of Christians. And, it won’t be banishment this time–it’ll be beheading! It wouldn’t surprise me if Paul doesn’t get his fool head cut off! If his goes–yours will be next!.

PAUL IS A PRISONER.
Isn’t that a great testimony for Christ? A preacher with a police record. Great! Now–he’s under house arrest. Rumor is that’s going to end real soon! He won’t listen to me. Please contact him. It’s your responsibility.

[Preacher, doesn't it make you mad that Apaul would even suggest that Paul should quit? AREN'T YOU GLAD THAT HE DIDN'T? Then why are you using some of the same lame excuses to consider quitting? DON'T YOU QUIT. Keep on keepin' on!]

Mark 4:15 “And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts.”

It might just be a piece of candy–a swirled red and white disc of candy, flavored with peppermint, and wrapped in cellophane–to you. And, you might have been lulled into thinking of it as only something that satisfies a sweet tooth, soothes a scratchy throat, or sweetens the breath. However, that little mint becomes a deadly weapon in the hand of some people! These people are serial killers–of a sort–in your church! They do not kill people–directly. They kill the spirit of a service.

They come in both genders, all sizes, all ages, and all colors. They are either Christian or non-Christian. (Amazingly, the vast majority are Christian!) They slip into the services of your church armed and dangerous. Their weapons having been deftly concealed in a pocket or a purse. Even if your church had a metal detector, it would not stop their dastardly deeds. They would slip right through with their sucrose and cellophane weapon hidden somewhere on their person.

Who are they? What do they look like? How can one identify them? Well, that is not an easy task. Because, they look like me. They look like you. They even look like your uncle–or your grandmother! You cannot go by appearances. They just blend in. Then they pick off their innocent by-sitters–one by one.

How many times have I witnessed their mayhem while preaching from the pulpit or while listening from a pew to a guest preacher. Oh, the perpetrators would say that they are innocent–and, that they did not mean to kill anything, or anyone. Yet, isn’t that what they all say?

The only way that you can identify them is by their M.O. (Latin, modus operandi–i.e. “method of operation”). If you are going to catch them, then you are going to have to catch them in action. You ask, “How hard can it be to catch someone eating candy?” Dear soul, it is not that simple. The candy monster is not the only serial killer in the church. Basically the M.O.’s fall into four categories–which can be generally identified by: the counter/mumbler, the clipper/manicurist, the curator of memorabilia, and–worst of all the aforementioned candy monster.

The counter/mumbler, whose favorite books in the Bible are Numbers, I Chronicles, and II Chronicles, is the one who counts people, pews, hymnals, light fixtures, electrical outlets, knots in the wood, tiles, perforations in ceiling tiles, etc. They are a nuisance to all those seated around them. Because, although they have their head pointed in a forward direction, their head is noticeably askance–tilted just enough to discombobulate the earnest seeker. Also, they sometimes have to point as they count. Oh, they do not blatantly point a finger out in front of them. No! They use an overt head nod or little finger point from wherever their hand might be resting–i.e. neatly folded on the lap, around a wife’s shoulder, or resting on a Bible. The dead give away, however, is the occasional whispered slips, “one hundred nine… one hundred ten…one hundred ‘leven”. The really experienced counters can compute–in their head–the square footage of auditorium, the cubic footage of the building, and even the BTU index for the structure: i.e. If you were foolish enough to ask, then the response would be something like, “That’s four times the cubic footage for a well insulated building and six times for a poorly insulated one. This building needs 1.5 million BTU for its HACV (Heating/Air Conditioning, and Ventilation).” YET, if you were to ask Mr. or Mrs. Calculator what the morning message was about, he–or she–is as dumb as a mud fence

The clipper/manicurist works on his or her nails at a service. Somehow they can get multiple “clips” out of each and every nail. These folks need our prayer. Their nails are pretty; but, their souls are crooked, crusty, and coarse; and, they must be cursed with the fastest growing finger nails! Because, somehow, they are able to “clip…clip…clip!” during every service. They are real clip artists! Yet–make no mistake about it–it is an evil art! Only God knows how deadly a well placed “clip” can be. Without a doubt, it interferes with the working of the Holy Spirit. It is not that a little fifty-nine cent finger nail clipper is mightier than the Sword of the Spirit–or the Spirit. Rather, it is that the human heart is more tender than the finger nail. Do you ever think that the clipper/manicurist even considers the damaging effect that clipping has on the quick of a tender heart? Clipping nails, trimming nose hairs, plucking eyebrows or chin hairs, AND all other acts of personal hygiene–should be done in private. Please.

The curator of memorabilia uses the service to take a long leisurely stroll down memory lane. Hidden in the leaves of his or her otherwise unused Bible are hair clippings from children and grandchildren–neatly tied with an appropriate pink or blue ribbon, a card sent from a loved one–now long deceased, numerous obituary clippings, missionary prayer cards,ar, a smile, a pensive staring off into the past, a “hmm…”, or even a chuckle! The parade of curiosities from the leather bound menagerie kept the spectators–seated all around the curator–from getting anything from the message.

Finally, the worst of all, is the candy monster. This person is the worst because of the number affected and because their method is such cruel and unusual torture. A “clip…clip” might be as far ranging; BUT, it is over in a snippet. However, the cruel candy monster has perfected the unwrapping of a single piece of candy so that it is clearly heard by everyone–even the deaf!–and does it so slowly that even the most spiritual saint is distracted. The candy monster has learned to stagger the intervals between the “crinkles” of unwrapping the candy–varying them from a few milli-seconds to as much as a quarter minute. The most skilled candy monsters can thus extend the torture for minutes–perhaps as much as nine to ten minutes! (These people are the same ones who would pull a band-aid off a child’s scraped knee–one cell at a time! Or, if they were giving you an injection, they would take a minute and a half just pushing the needle in–and two minutes pulling it out! OR, if, while they were writing on a blackboard, the chalk started screeching, then they can stretch the screech out until everyone’s teeth are on edge–EVEN THOSE WHO HAVE DENTURES! Do you get the picture? Need I say more??) Has it never occurred to the candy monster to place–just prior to the service–a piece or two of candy in a clean handkerchief?

People should go to church to worship the LORD. They should sit quietly and attentively. It is disrespectful to God, His Word, the preacher, and your brothers and sisters in the Lord to be so disruptive.

Don’t be an accomplice to murder. Don’t be an impedi-mint to the Gospel. Don’t assist the Devil in stealing the Word from people’s hearts. Just once–don’t perform acts of personal hygiene in the service, don’t count anything, and don’t let your mind wander. Try going a whole hour without putting something in your mouth. And, who knows? You might get something from the service. Moreover, everyone else is more likely to get something!

Acts 6:1-7, I Timothy 3:8-13

The Origin, Obligation, Opportunity and Obstacles of the Deacon.

Acts 6:1-7 And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. 2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. 3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full ofthe Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.  4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.  5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: 6 Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. 7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

Introduction:

Why study the doctrine of deacon (Deaconology)? Because there is a great need for us to come to a Biblical understanding and a practical application of this doctrine so that, “the word of God (might increase); and the number of the disciples (might be) multiplied greatly; and a great company….(might be more) obedient to the faith.” (Acts6:7)  This study will emphasize the practical truth concerning the Deacon in these three sessions: SESSION ONE–the Deacon: his person, SESSION TWO–the Deacon: his pastor (cooperation), and SESSION THREE–the Deacon: the people.  Instead of electing servants that are needed to carry out essential–albeit sometimes mundane–tasks and be helper to the pastor, today many churches elect deacons without  any real function in the church, “ordain” men to an honorary position of being “the deacon”–nothing more than a figurehead. Or because, “We ought to have a deacon or deacons.” Men are chosen because of social and economic status or “loyalty to the pastor” rather than because there is a need and there are qualified men to perform the task.  A pastor friend told me of a church of forty that had eight deacons! There was no need  for that many deacons; and, none of them appeared to be Scripturally qualified to serve.  It is also normal today to elect a “Deacon Board” and “Head Deacon” or  “Chairman of the Deacon Board.” Where is that taught in the Bible?  The Deacon Board or Deacon Committee is little more than an unscriptural oligarchy “the rule by a few” (Cf. the deeds of the Nicolaitines–which God hates! Revelation 2:6) which the pastor is compelled to go before and “get approval” (i.e. “get them on his side”) before bringing an item before the congregation. The pastor should seek advice; however, the approval must be from the Lord and his people–not from just a few deacons. (This approval seeking from a deacon or deacons is merely a form of “Presbyterianism”–”Elder Rule”–a vile remnant of Romanism. The practice is not Scriptural. The Biblical form of church polity is congregational rule under a pastor’s leadership. The first deacons were chosen after there was a formed and functioning church and pastorate.)   So, obviously, there is much unscriptural belief and practice concerning deacons in  our churches today. What is the cure? Faith in and obedience to the Scriptures! “Whatsaith the Scriptures” about the deacon?

THE DEACON

SESSION ONE THE DEACON: HIS PERSON

I. DECLARATION: There are two official servants in a church: I Timothy 3:1-13

A. Pastor, elder or bishop. I Timothy 3:1-7 (Cf. Acts 20:17,28)

B. Deacon. I Timothy 3:10, 13 (Note: “office” the Deacon is a separate office.)

II. DEFINITION: Deacon is the transliteration of “diakonos.”

A. The word, “diakonos,” means a “servant,” the NT gives examples of:

1. ordained servants elected by the church to the office of deacon

2. unelected servants who served the Lord in a general sense.

a. (The noun “diakonos” is used thirty times in the New Testament.

b. Three of those times refer to an ordained servant (Phil. 1:1,1 Tim. 3:8, 12)).

B. The verb “diakoneo” is found twice in 1 Tim. 3:10, 13, and is translated , “use the office of a deacon.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

SERVANT Matthew 20:24-28 “But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye

know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great

exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be

great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let

him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to

minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. ” (Cf. Philippians 2:5-9)

S–selfless: no possessions, no plans, no power

E–energetic: serves “heartily”–not “slothful”

R–respectful

V–volunteer

A–able, willing and ready

N–”nothing too hard, nowhere too far, now IS the time”

T–trustworthy I Corinthians 4:2

We are never more like Christ than when we serve others. Every service done in

His Name will receive a reward–even the giving of a glass of water!

III. DESCRIPTION The Deacon: Pious Servant

I Timothy 3:8-13 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; 9 Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. 10 And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless. 11 Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. 12 Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. 13 For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

THE DEACON’S PERSONAL CHARACTER v:8

a. Grave – serious in mind and character by way of honesty and holiness. Thus implying that he is to have great reverence for the matter of being a deacon. He understands the seriousness of spiritual issues and life itself.

b. Not Double-tongued – Saying a thing to one person and giving a different view of it to another.

c. Not given to much wine – To hold the mind towards, to adhere to, give attendance to. Much wine (strong wine or alcoholic wine).

d. Not greedy of filthy lucre – greedy of shameful gain. Doesn’t use his brother and sisters in the Lord.

THE DEACON’S PIETY v.9

a. Mystery – something that was hidden but now is revealed: i.e. all N.T. Revelation from Matt. To Rev. Adhere and cling to the gospel with sincere integrity.

b. One of growing spiritual stature (a Bible student).

c. One who possess a deep conviction about the truth of the gospel and its teaching in his life and the lives of others.

THE DEACON’S PRACTICE v:10

“Let these” imperative verb. to approve after testing. He does not become a deacon to be a servant in as much as he becomes a deacon because he is already a servant.

THE DEACON’S PURITY v:6-10

“Being found Blameless” Let them be appointed to this office, and fulfill its duties if nothing can be alleged against their character. Free from all legal charges, as well.

THE DEACON’S PATERNAL LIFE v:11-12

a. Healthy family relationship with a supportive wife concerning his decision.

b. Model of faithful devotion to one spouse–not divorced. He must be committed to the sanctity of the marriage bond.

c. Manage his own home well, loved and respected by his wife and children, firm but with the compassion and tenderness of Christ.

Based on the Scriptural requirements, concerning the deacon:

I. HIS SALVATION EXPERIENCE MUST BE IMPECCABLE

A. By his life

B. By his lip.

II. HIS SERVICE MUST BE FAITHFUL (I Corinthians 4:2)

A. To all services

B. To all tasks.

III. HIS SEPARATION MUST BE EVIDENT

A. Separated from sin.

B. Separated unto the Son.

IV. HIS SOLIDARITY WITH THE CHURCH

A. In doctrine–faith

B. In devotion–practice. (continued in next Session)

SESSION TWO: THE DEACON AND HIS PASTOR

V. HIS SENSITIVITY TO THE PASTOR

A. Sensitivity to the pastor’s needs

1. remuneration

2. housing

3. transportation

4. administration.

5. inspiration

6. relaxation

B. Sensitivity to pastor’s spiritual needs

1. prayer

2. encouragement

3. sermon preparation

4. handling problems

5. conducting services

C. Sensitivity to pastor’s family’s needs

1. encouragement

2. fellowship

3. acceptance

4. protection

5. understanding

D. Sensitivity to the pastor and church

1. respect

2. review the pastor’s finances

3. recommend and report needs to church

4. relate to pastor problems

5. remove self (discreetly) from office–if cannot support pastor.

SESSION THREE: THE DEACON AND THE PEOPLE OF THE CHURCH

HOW A CHURCH SHOULD SOLVE PROBLEMS–Acts 6:1-7

DEFINITION OF THE PROBLEM Vs. 1

The early church was made up of two distinct groups of Jewish Christians. There were

those who Hebrew or Aramaic (Hebrews) and those who spoke Greek (Grecians). The

Grecians felt that their widows were not getting the same treatment as the Hebrew

widows. This is the type of problem that can still cause problems in a local church today.

CONSULTATION AMONG THE LEADERS (APOSTLES/PASTORS) Vs. 2

It is obvious that the Apostles had discussed this problem before they actually met with the congregation to solve it. Leaders must communicate and work together to solve difficulties.

RECOMMENDATION TO THE SAINTS Vss. 2-4

Notice that the Apostles kept their own priorities in order by not leaving the job they were

called to do. They continued their ministry of preaching and praying, but recommended

that Godly men be appointed to take care of the problem. Delegation can often relieve a

pastor and other church leaders of tasks, which someone else can do.

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SOLUTION Vss. 5-6

An election was held. Those elected appear to be members of the Grecian portion of the

church. The Apostles put their blessing on the ministry of these men.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RESULTS Vss. 7-8

The word of God increased.

The number of disciples multiplied.

Many priests believed.

APPENDIX: FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):

1. If a man has served as a deacon in one church, should he automatically serve as a deacon in the next church he joins?

• No. I have served as a pastor for twenty years in one church; however, that does not mean that I should pastor the next church that I attend.

2. If a deacon is an official servant of the church, shouldn’t he be paid?

• No. Deacon is not listed among the gifts (of ministers) given to the church

(Ephesians 4). Those who labor in the Word (pastors, missionaries, and evangelists) should receive support.  (I Timothy 5:18,18 and Acts 6:4)

3. What are the specific duties of a deacon?

• A pastor friend of mine answered this question: “The Scriptures do not list the specific duties. But given the information of Acts 6:1-8, it seems to me the primary responsibility is to help the pastor in any way he, the pastor, sees fit. If there is any way that deacons can set preachers free, not so much as free from as free to spend time in ministering and studying the Word. I strongly believe that the Lord created the office of deacon in order that it might make the pastor’s ministry more effective. These men were to substitute for the pastor in essential but mundane jobs previously done by the pastors. “.

. . .when the number of the disciples was multiplied. . . .Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them and said, It is not reason that we should leave the Word or God and serve tables. . . .But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and the ministry of the word.”

I feel this best explains the reason why that the qualifications are so similar in I Timothy. The deacon is an extension for the pastor.

4. Is the deacon over the pastor? Should the deacon have an attitude of being “church boss?” Or, being the “church protector.” I.e. “I was here before this new pastor came. And, I will be here when he is gone; so, I have to hold things together.”?

• Although, one can understand the deacon’s thoughts on the matter (a deacon is always local; whereas, the pastor is many times called from afar) I feel that, absent doctrinal deviation or moral failure of the pastor, if a deacon reaches the point where cannot support the pastor and follow his leadership, he should resign rather than becoming an irritant to the pastor or the leader of a faction in opposition to the pastor.

I have often thought that when a church changes pastors it might be a good idea for all the deacons to resign and after a season for the church and pastor to adjust to each other, have the new pastor call for a new election. The spiritual men would be reelected.  Of course, as he is the pastor’s helper, a deacon will naturally become his counselor, “sounding board” and “fellow labourer.” The deacon is to be a servant—like our Savior. (Mark 10:45)

Suggested Reading List for Further Study

Criswell, W. A. “Criswell’s Guidebook For Pastors.” Nashville, TN:

Broadman Press, 1980.

Henderson, J. T. “The Office of Deacon.” Kingsport, TN:

Kingsport Press, Inc., 1928.

Moser, M. L. “Baptist Handbook for Church Members (Revised).”

Little Rock, Arkansas: The Challenge Press, 1983.

Naylor, Robert E. “The Baptist Deacon.” Little Rock, AR:

The Challenge Press, 1974. (Reprint)

Pennell, William. “The Independent Baptist Deacon.” Decatur, GA:

Forrest Hills Baptist Church, 1981.

Some pastors drive the sheep-like the butcher. Others lead the sheep-like the Shepherd. One group of pastors finds that the people willingly and cheerfully follow them. The other group finds that they are in an adversarial role with the very people whom they sincerely want to serve.

By being a joy-helper, Paul did not mean that he would never reprove or rebuke, because he did-especially the carnal Corinthians! Rather, he meant that his purpose (even in a rebuke) ultimately would be to help their joy! We should all be like Pastor Joy-Helper.

Pastor, what type are you? Are you a joy-helper? If not, your ministry would change for the better if you became a joy-helper for your people. However, before you can help other’s joy, you must have that joy yourself. How can you have the joy of the Lord? There are seven sources of joy:

The Precious Word

“Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.” (Jeremiah 15:16)

“Thy Word was unto me … joy!” Brother, have you lost your joy? Why? “The word is nigh thee-even in thy mouth” (Romans 10:8). Don’t you know where the answer is? Read the Word. Mark, memorize, meditate, and be mastered by the Word. Start with the Psalms. Memorize verses, chapters, and then books of the Bible.

Let the Word of God richly dwell in you. Preach the Word. Systematically preach the whole counsel of the Word. Pray the Word. Plant the Word. Ply the Word. Partake of the Word. Your joy-and the joy of those who hear you-will be increased! The Word of God does the work of God! His Word is joy.

The Privilege of Prayer

“Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.” (John 16:24)

“Ask … that your joy may be full.” If you don’t pray, you’ll not have full joy. You preach to others to pray. Why don’t you pray? Are you too busy? If you are too busy to pray, you are too busy!

One of God’s purposes in prayer is to give you joy! That’s what this text says, doesn’t it? Instead of griping and complaining, try praying. Do you have joy? No? Perhaps you have not because you ask not.

A little boy needed a new pair of shoes. His widowed mother was too poor to buy him a new pair. She told him, “Let’s pray that God will give you a new pair of shoes.” They knelt down beside his bed and prayed for the new shoes. Before he got into bed, the little boy turned to his mother and asked, “Do you think that God really hears our prayers? Do you think that He will give me a new pair of shoes?”

“Oh, yes!” his mother said, “wait and see!” She said that, trying to have the faith to back up that statement. She had no more than returned to the downstairs when there was knock at the door. Her neighbor was standing there with a brand new pair of shoes for her boy. The neighbor explained that her son had never liked the new shoes, never worn them, and now had outgrown them! “Can you use them?” she asked. “Oh yes! Thank you!” she said. When her neighbor left, she took the shoes upstairs and put them beside her sleeping boy’s bed, right where he would see them first thing in the morning. The next morning her little boy came bounding down the stairs, carrying his new shoes and shouting with joy, “Oh Mama, God does answer prayer!”

How long has it been since you had that kind of joy? How long has it been since you believed that God does answer prayer?

The Product of the Spirit’s Fruit in Your Life

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.” (Galatians 5:22)

“The fruit of the Spirit is … joy.” Therefore, a Spirit-filled Christian has joy. If you have no joy, then …? Well, we don’t want to go there, do we?

Brother, the truth of the matter may be that you may be running on autopilot. Of all people who should be Spirit-led, you should be!

However, before there can be a filling, there must be a killing! Reckon yourself dead. Yield yourself to the Spirit. Be emptied of self. Be filled with the Spirit of God. The question is never, “How much of the Holy Spirit do you have?” The question is, “How much of you does the Holy Spirit have?” Your joy depends on that.

Personal Soul-Winning

“For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?” (I Thessalonians 2:19)

“There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” (Luke 15:10)

The greatest joy I have in the ministry is to see a soul saved and then grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Immediately after I had accepted the call to be a preacher, a friend and I had the privilege of leading an old man to the Lord. The man’s wife had been praying for fifty years that the Lord would save him.

He had been an alcoholic nearly all his life. Yet his wife never gave up on him. She asked my friend and me to visit him in the hospital. As we witnessed to him, she waited in the hall, praying one more time for her husband to be saved. And the Lord did save him.

When we came out of the room, his wife could tell by the expressions on our faces that her prayers finally had been answered. She came to us and grabbed us around the neck and hugged us so hard that our heads were rammed together! Yet, I will never forget that joy.

It has been my joy to lead others to Christ. That joy is addictive. Do you have that joy or have you lost it? Win souls to Christ! Teach your people the joy of soul-winning. Sow the seed with weeping. Reap the harvest with rejoicing!

Practicing Fellowship with God

“And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.” (I John 1:4)

Sin will rob you of fellowship. No fellowship with God means no joy. God desires your fellowship. So if you have deprived yourself of the joy of fellowshipping with God, the problem is with you and not with God. Confess your sin. He is faithful and just to forgive all sin and to restore fellowship.

When I was a young, lost teenager, it seemed that my father was always picking on me about something. I hated it! One evening at the supper table, after the tension had been building for months, he did something (I’ve forgotten what it was) that made me mad. “I hate you!” I hissed at him.

My father looked shocked and hurt. As soon as the words had left my mouth, I regretted saying them. Irretrievably, the words were out. My father excused himself from the table. He said nothing. In fact, for the next two weeks, he said nothing to me. He avoided me. If I came into a room, he left. He relayed messages to me through my mother or my sisters.

One day, a schoolmate’s father died suddenly from a heart attack. I felt sad for my friend. At the same time, I felt guilty because my friend’s father’s death made me realize how wrong I was not to make things right with my father. I wondered how I would feel if Dad died and we had not reconciled.

As soon as I arrived home, I found Dad working in the basement. He turned away from me as I approached. I tapped him on the shoulder and said, “Dad, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it when I said that I hated you. I love you, and I am sorry that I hurt you. Please forgive me.” Dad turned around and hugged me and said, “Doc” (my nickname), “I forgive you.” Fellowship with my earthly father was restored. What joy!

Fellowship with your Heavenly Father can be restored as well. Go to Him. He is waiting. He will not turn you away. Tell Him that you are sorry. He will forgive and abundantly pardon. He will restore that sweet fellowship. What joy!

The Person of the Lord

“Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” (Philippians 4:4)

Rejoice in Who He is, what He has said, and what He has done. Rejoice in the fact that He is in control. Rejoice in the fact that He makes no mistakes. Philippians 4:8-9 states, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.”

Notice how every attribute in the above verse is an attribute of Christ. Think about Christ. Preach about Christ. Praise Christ. “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, rejoice” in the Lord.

Prophecy

“By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” (Romans 5:2)

“But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” (I Peter 4:13)

Weeping endures for a night; joy comes in the morning! For the Christian, there is the blessed hope that gives us great joy. We are going to Heaven! We are going to see the King. We are going to see our saved loved ones again. There will be no more pain, no more sorrow, no more death, for the former things will pass away. What joy that should bring to our souls!

Pastor, there is much that could be accomplished by your becoming a joy-helper. Your life could be changed for the better, your family could be blessed, and your ministry could be rejuvenated by your drawing from the seven sources of joy.

Pastor Terry Hagedorn, Calvary Baptist Church, Reedsville, WV

The Twenty-third Psalm is the favorite Psalm of most believers. Probably because it is the most personal Psalm–the personal pronouns “I”, “me”, “my”, or “mine” occur eighteen times in the Psalm’s six verses.

There are three primary names for God revealed to us in His Holy Word: El (Plural: Elohim), Adonai, and Jehovah. The first two names, El and Adonai, are titular in nature.

Elohim is used 2,570 times, it refers to God’s power, intelligence, and wisdom. (Gen. 1:1, Psalm 19:1) There are four compounds of the name El: Elyon, the strongest strong One. (Gen. 14:17-20); El Roi, the strong One Who sees. (Gen. 16:13); El Shaddai, the breasted one–comforter, sustainer, and nurturer. (Gen. 17:1, Psalm 91:1); and, El Olam: the everlasting God. (Isaiah 40:28-31)

Adonai, the second of these titles, means “Master, Lord” (Mal. 1:6). It is the New Testament counterpart of Kurios, “Lord”.

Jehovah, the self-existent One, the God of the Covenant. It is God’s most common name–occurring 6,823 times in the Bible. It is the combination of the vowels from Adonai and the Tetragrammeton, YHWH, the Hebrew verb, “I am” or “to be”. The Jews purposely omitted the vowels from this name for God, YHWH, in order to prevent the profane use of the Holy Name (Ex. 20:7).

Additionally, there are nine combinations of His personal Name,

Jehovah, that reveal His nature and character:

2. Jehovah Rohi: The Lord my Shepherd. Ps. 23:1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

3. Jehovah Jireh: The Lord will provide. Gen. 22:13 And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son. 14 And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovahjireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the LORD it shall be seen.

4. Jehovah Rapha: The Lord our Healer. Ex. 15:26 And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, … I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee.

5. Jehovah Maccaddeschcem: The Lord thy Sanctifier. Ex. 31:13 Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the LORD that doth sanctify you.

6. Jehovah Tsidkenu: The Lord our Righteousness. Jer. 23:6 In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.

7. Jehovah Shalom: The Lord is Peace. Judges 6:24 Then Gideon built an altar there unto the LORD, and called it Jehovahshalom: unto this day it is yet in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.

8. Jehovah Shammah: The Lord who is present. Ezek. 48:35 …and the name of the city from that day shall be, The LORD is there.

9. Jehovah Sabaoth: The Lord of hosts. Isaiah 6:3 Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.

10. Jehovah Nissi: The Lord, my Banner. Ex. 17:15 And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovahnissi:

The Name, Jehovah, and all of its nine combinations are contained or implied in the Twenty-third Psalm:

PSALM 23

The LORD (Jehovah) is my shepherd (Jehovah Rohi); I shall not want (Jehovah Jireh). 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul (Jehovah Rapha): he leadeth me (Jehovah Maccaddeschcem) in the paths of righteousness (Jehovah Tsidkenu) for his name’s sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil (Jehovah Shalom): for thou art with me; (Jehovah Shammah) thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies (Jehovah Sabaoth): thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever (Jehovah Nissi).

Isn’t it wonderful to have such a personable personal Savior? I feel like the little boy in Sunday School who was called on to recite the Twenty-third Psalm. He boldly stood up and triumphantly started his recitation, “The Lord is my shepherd; I got all I want…”

Pastor Terry Hagedorn, Calvary Baptist Church, Reedsville, WV

We reject the error of the Nicolaitanes, the Roman Catholic Church, et al, who create a false and pretentious distinction between the people and the pastor. Nevertheless, we recognize that there ARE two sides to the pulpit, literally and figuratively speaking. There is the pastor side and there is the pew side.

As such, the pulpit is like a fulcrum between the pastor and the people. The harmonious workings of any church depends on a proper understanding of this essential balance in the church.

If one were to ask the average church member what he or she expects from a pastor, you might hear: He should be a man who is called by God, who loves people, who knows and preaches the Word of God, who prays, who counsels those in need, who visits the sick and shut-ins, and who performs weddings and funerals, etc….

Though the average church member knows what THEY expect from the pastor, he or she is usually unable to enunciate much of anything that a pastor should rightfully expect FROM the people. (In all fairness–there is probably the same percentage of pastors who do not consider the needs of the church.)

BEHOLD, I will show you great mysteries (to the average church member): 1. How much DOES the pastor earn? 2. What are his expenses? 3. How DOES he live on this income? 4. How IS the pastor to know that: you were in the hospital, someone in your family died in Timbuktu, that you and your spouse were having problems, etc… IF NO ONE TELLS HIM? 5. How DOES the church grass get cut? 6. How DOES the church building get cleaned, maintained, painted, etc…? 7. How IS it SO hard to pastor a church- when it seems that so many know how to be a perfect pastor.

To insure a proper balance in the church, this is what the Bible teaches that a pastor SHOULD expect from the other side of the pulpit:

I. A pastor has the right to expect that the people he pastors should, FIRST OF ALL, pray for him. “Brethren pray for us, that the Word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you.” II Thess. 3:1. Prayer is essential- without prayer, all is vain. God DOES hear and answer prayer; but, you must pray!

II. Secondly, a pastor has the right to expect that the church should provide for his needs. “The labourer is worthy of his reward.” (I Tim. 5:17-18) Moreover, a church is wise to free up its pastor “to prayer, and to the ministry of the Word.” (Acts 6:4) The results being that, “the Word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied.”(Acts 6:7)

III. Thirdly, the church has the responsibility to practice God’s Word. The pastor should expect that the church he ministers to should, obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account.” (Hebrews 13:17) Also, the church should, “be… doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” (James 1:22) A godly pastor has, “no greater joy than to hear that (his) children walk in truth.” (III John 3)

IV. Fourthly, the pastorate can be a very lonely position. Do not begrudge your pastor any attempt to fellowship with others of like precious faith. Also, sometimes the pastor becomes close friends with one or more church members who share his likes and dislikes (fishing, hunting, golfing, etc…). Please don’t accuse him of showing favoritism or of forming a clique. EVERYONE NEEDS A FRIEND. Even the greatest of God’s servants had an inner circle of close friends. Paul commanded, “Let brotherly love continue.” (Hebrews 13:1) Also, he spoke of Timothy as a trusted friend and confidant. “For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state.” (Phil. 2:20) Mark and Luke were also close friends. (II Tim.4:11) Again, EVERYONE NEEDS A FRIEND – EVEN A PASTOR! Pastors, be careful to NOT give the appearance of favoritism, though.

V. Fifthly, the pastor should expect help in promoting the Gospel and the Church. The Great Commission is given to all Christians (Matthew 28:19,20). The pastor’s main job is not soulwinning! It is ministering to the Lord and his people. Pastor, do not leave your first love. The first priority of the Apostles was “to prayer and to the ministry of the Word.” The gift of the pastor is given, “for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:12) Mature saints will be soulwinners. Soulwinning is the work of the church. Church member, let me ask you, “What kind of church would my church be- if every member WAS JUST LIKE YOU?”

VI. Sixthly, people should praise- express their appreciation to their pastor. “Exhort one another daily…” (Hebrews 3:13) A little bit of encouragement goes along way. There are so many discouragements in the ministry. A hardy “Amen” or “Pastor, we thank the Lord for you”- might just keep a pastor from quitting. The Apostle Paul used praise to express his appreciation for people and churches. Have you ever told your pastor that you appreciate him?

VII. Finally, people should protect their pastor. “Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.” (I Tim. 5:19) If he’s godly, then the world, the flesh (carnal people), and the Devil will attack him. (Matthew 5:10-12) “My pastor right or wrong” is loyalty that’s become idolatry. However, support your pastor with your loyalty.

Let’s all remember that the pulpit, like a fulcrum, balances two sides. Dear Church member, remember the pastor’s side. Fellow pastor, remember the church’s side. God will bless a balanced church.

Pastor Terry Kent Hagedorn, Calvary Baptist Church, Reedsville, WV

When I was fifteen (1965) I realized that my father was dumb. He had always been that way. It just had not been so apparent to me until I became a teenager. However, it was now becoming obnoxiously obvious to me that he was turning into THE dumbest man in the world! I am not exaggerating. It was a malignant condition. He kept getting worse. And, I kept getting more and more disgusted with his dumbness. It was a dreadful situation.

And, I had to live with him! It was almost more than I could bear. How could someone as suave, sophisticated, and sharp as me have EVER been born to this hillbilly? There must have been a mix-up at the hospital!

I was born the night of a 36 inch snowfall.  It was Friday.  We had no car.  We had no telephone. So, without consultation with the dumbest man in the world, my mother chose names from two of her favorite Sunday Comic characters: Terry, from “Terry and the Pirates”–a WWII fighter pilot, and Kent, from “Clark Kent: Superman”–mild-mannered writer. Those names were prophetic! I flew combat missions in Vietnam; AND, I am Super…well, a mild-mannered writer.

Dad did give me a nickname. “Doc” was his dumb nickname for me. He thought I looked like one of the Seven Dwarves as a baby. Guess which one. (Seriously, I am thankful for the name I was given for two reasons: 1) because my mother picked it out; and, 2) because it has kept me from taking myself too seriously. However, today I would have been proud to have been named for my Dad: Robert B. Hagedorn–The Dumbest Man in the World!)

Dad was always asking me dumb things: about my friends, about school, about homework, about high school sports, about my future plans. Then he would ask dumb things about my habits, activities, and associates.

So, he not only taught me how dumb he was–he taught me how dumb it is to work hard, to be honest, to be loyal, to love my family, to be a man and to fear God.

We weren’t saved—that is became born-again Christians–until the 1970′s; however, Mom and Dad were God fearing. At the time that Dad was suffering with his dumbness, I was an agnostic, atheist, open-minded, free thinker, radical hippie. I was too smart then to pay any attention to the “hicks from Dumbsville.”

However, it was at that time that Dad taught me the most memorable lesson. It was during the height of the hostilities between us. He was trying to make conversation with me at the breakfast table. He was asking more dumb questions like, “How are you? How’s school going?” He then said–or asked–something dumb like, “Doc, why won’t you talk to me? I love you. You’re my son.” Then he reached out his arm and placed it around my neck–to hug me. That was it! Actions speak louder than words! Dumb is AS dumb does!

“Dad, leave me alone! I’m sick of your dumb questions. Why don’t you just leave me alone? …I hate you…” the words slipped out of my mouth. I couldn’t believe that I said them. They echoed in my mind. I wished that I hadn’t said them; BUT, I couldn’t take them back! I was too dumb and too proud.

The words stabbed like a knife into my father’s chest. His face went deathly pale. He said nothing–dumb or otherwise. He quietly pushed away from the table and went to the other room.

“Terry Kent Hagedorn!” mom angrily said. (Mom didn’t have a nickname for me–dumb or otherwise. I knew what it meant when she used my full name.)

“You should never have said that. You’ve hurt your father’s feelings. You go and apologize to him right now!,” so said my mother–the second dumbest person in the world at that time.

I wish now that I had listened to her. In fact, I wish now that I had always listened to every dumb thing that Mom and Dad said to me! I would have been better off!

I said, “I will not! I’m glad that I hurt his feelings! Maybe now he’ll leave me alone! I am so sick of his dumb questions and actions that I can’t stand it anymore!”

Leave me alone–he did. He purposely avoided me. If I came into a room–he left. If he needed to speak to me, he relayed the message to me through my mother or sister. He found excuses to not eat at the table–with me. He ate before–or after–I did. He was not mean. He just acted cold.

At first, I loved it. Finally! I had my much coveted privacy. And, I did not have to put up with his dumbness.

This went on for about two blissful weeks. Then tragedy struck–someone else! One day in school, my friend David was called out into the hallway. The principal whispered something to him. David–also an agnostic, atheist, open-minded, free thinker, radical–began to cry. The teacher put her arm around him and walked him to the office. After class, I learned that David’s father, a meat cutter at a large grocery store, had suffered a massive heart attack and had died.

“What if that had been Dad,” I selfishly thought to myself.

I was not as smart as I thought! I hadn’t thought about this possibility–permanent freedom from the dumbest man in the world. My stone cold heart melted. Like the Prodigal, I came to myself. I knew what I needed to do. How to do it escaped me! My pride resisted tooth and nail. However, I determined to make things right–today!

As soon as I got home, I asked Mom, “Where’s Dad?”

She said, “In the basement.”

He saw me come down the stairs. He turned his back to me. I walked over to him and tapped him on his shoulder. He slowly turned and stoically asked, “What do you want?”

I said, “Dad, I am sorry for saying what I said. I don’t hate you. I love you. Please forgive me.”

He didn’t say a word–at first. He just hugged me…AND, for the first time in years I did not think it was so dumb.

He said, “Doc, I forgive you. I love you, too.”

The lesson that the dumbest man taught me was this: I might not always be in a loving fellowship with my father; but, I am always his son, he always loves me, and he is always ready to forgive me and restore full fellowship–if I confess my sin to him. Pretty good lesson for the dumbest man in the world! Huh?

(My father died March 17, 2008. I preached his funeral on Good Friday. Two precious souls trusted Christ as Savior in the service. I thank God everyday for my dumb father and the dumb things he taught me. I love you, Dad.)

* Refrain:
Living by faith in Jesus above,
Trusting, confiding in His great love;
From all harm safe in His sheltering arm,
I’m living by faith and feel no alarm.

2. Though tempests may blow and the storm clouds arise,
Obscuring the brightness of life,
I’m never alarmed at the overcast skies—
The Master looks on at the strife.

3. I know that He safely will carry me through,
No matter what evils betide;
Why should I then care though the tempest may blow,
If Jesus walks close to my side.

4. Our Lord will return for His loved ones some day,
Our troubles will then all be o’er;
The Master so gently will lead us away,
Beyond that blest heavenly shore.

HOW I MADE IT–SO FAR

Philippians 4:11 I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.

Pastor Terry K. Hagedorn, Calvary Baptist Church, Reedsville, WV

The first five years of my ministry were really rough. After that, things got worse until I learned what Paul learned–“to be content.” (Gk. autarkes, according to Strong’s Concordance, means “satisfied, sufficient for one’s self, strong enough… contented with one’s lot, with one’s means, though the slenderest.”).

True contentment cannot be counterfeited or copied. It is not carelessness, coldness, or complacency. Rather, it is a satisfaction, serenity and a sanctified self-confidence produced by growth in the grace and knowledge of God.

Contentment is neither automatic nor absorbed; rather, it is acquired. Paul said, “I have learned…”–i.e. I have gained knowledge by use and practice.

Many ministers have not learned contentment. This fact is obvious to even the casual observer. In fact, has there ever been a time when there was more seeming discontent? (I know that God moves men–sometimes every few years; however, I am convinced that You-Haul is moving more than Yahweh!)

It is always too soon to leave. Moreover, you do not go from trouble–you go to trouble! It is the same everywhere. People are people. You can change places–you cannot change people. If you don’t pass the test where you are, God will just give you the same test where ever you go–until you do pass it.

Also, remember that the green grass tempting you to move could mean one of three things: 1) It could be greener. Yet, that means there will only be more to mow. And, if you are having trouble mowing what you have now…? 2) It could be astro-turf–artificial to the core. Or, 3) it could be greener because it is growing over the septic field. You do not want to know why.

Green grass is green grass. Green-up the green grass where you are. Water it with the ministry of the Word and feed it with prayer. Learn to be content where ever you are; because, “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” Learn what Paul learned::

LET OTHERS HELP Phil 1:1 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ

In seven of the fourteen Pauline epistles, the Apostle mentions his co-laborers in the first few sentences of his greeting. Obviously, Paul had learned the Old Testament wisdom of letting others help.

“Two are better than one; …For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up…And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” Ecclessiastes 4:9-12

If Paul had been like many other ministers, he would have tried to “do everything myself.” Which is the auto-epitaph of many otherwise good preachers.

When asked about letting others help, some preachers respond, “No one helps me! No one! I don’t need help. I am the pastor!” (This is the jealous dictator response.) Or, “Well, someone has to do it.” (Martyr’s complex.) Or, “I don’t have any one to help!” (Winner of the Whiner Award.) Or, “I’d rather just do it myself; than bother–or burden–someone else with the problem.” (Winner of the pseudo-Barnabas award.) Or, “At least, if I do it myself, I know it will be done right!” (Humorous response.) Or, “I’d rather just do it than have to put up with someone else complaining about having to do it.” (Easy-way-out response.)

In the Old Testament (please read Exodus 18:3-27) we learn that Moses was hindering the work of God, hurting his family (a concerned father, Jethro–probably prompted by a daughter’s lonely tears–spoke to his son-in-law); and, Moses was harming his own health. Moses was about to “wear away”–burn out. He was trying to administrate or “judge” the affairs of 2.5 million people (more than the population of my home state, West Virginia!)–all by himself. Moreover, he would have continued trying to do it until he dropped dead, if his father-in-law had not said something. If Moses had not been meek–the meekest man, he would have reacted to the criticism like many preachers do: resentment or rejection of the criticism. (Not all criticism is wrong. You are not always right. Your critics are not always wrong. In fact, every criticism has at least a kernel of truth. Or else, they would not be so bold to openly criticize you.)

It was not true that there were no others to help Moses. In fact, the remedy involved judges over a thousand, over a hundred, over fifty, and even over ten. Literally, tens of thousands of ready, willing and able ministers were being kept from a ministry by the naively monopolistic actions and attitudes of Moses.

Moses learned to be content. Paul learned to be content. So can you. Please let others help.

LOWLINESS Phil 2:2 In lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Some, like Diotrophes in III John, have a high and haughty opinion of themselves. Just ask them. No. After second thought, it is not necessary to ask them.

Notwithstanding their greatness, many are discontented because they feel that they deserve a better position, better pay, better people and a better prospect for the future than they have received. Instead of being broken because of their sinful pride, they are looking for that illusive “big break.”

Young preachers think they are it–i.e. the perfect pastor, many middle-aged ones are looking for it–i.e. the perfect church, and many older preachers are bitter because they lament, “How did I, the perfect pastor, ever leave it–the perfect church?”

This misguided ministerial malaise will lead to a pernicious bout of discontent. Do you really want what you deserve? Really? Brother, be thankful that you have not gotten what you deserve–Hell. The ministry that you have now is better–far better–than you will ever deserve.

You do not deserve your calling, either–it is by grace. In fact, it is a grace (a gift). Do you realize how privileged you are to be a minister of the Gospel? We are the servants of the Lord!

Rather than seeking self aggrandizement, seek that the Savior might increase and that you might decrease. Remember that pride has “i” at the center. Jesus should be at the center. Jesus must be at the center, if you would be blessed. “God resisteth the proud” is not an idle threat. And, it is a threat.

What is the treatment or therapy for this discontent? The answer is in Christlikeness. Lowliness of mind means to have a humble opinion of one’s self or a deep sense of one’s unworthiness. True humility is not thinking less of one oneself; rather, it is not thinking of oneself at all.

How many preachers have preached J-O-Y (Jesus FIRST, Others SECOND, Yourself LAST )? Yet, how many have practiced it?

Jesus did. Paul did. If you do, you will learn contentment.

LEAVE YOUR BURDENS WITH THE LORD Phil 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Phil 4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

There are three places to leave your burdens. On your back, on another’s back, or on the Lord’s back. We are commanded to bear our own burden. We are commanded to help bear another’s burden. However, we should cast all our “care upon Him, because He careth for” us.

When placing burdens on others, limit the burdens that you share with your wife. You are very foolish to take problems home. Leave them at church, on an intercessor’s back, on THE intercessor’s back; BUT, never take all the burdens home! She is your helpmeet; however, she is not your co-pastor. You are her pastor–poor woman.

Pray. If you are not praying, then you are playing. Pray. Pray because: His Command–we are commanded to pray, Christ prayed. If he needed to pray, how much more do we? Christians pray. The Church has prayed from the beginning (Acts 2); and, prayer is God’s Chosen method for saving the sinner (Romans 10:9,10), sanctifying the saint (Jude 20), sending forth laborers (Matthew 9:38), satisfying your needs (Matthew 6:11), seeking God’s wisdom (James 1:5), showing His will (Jeremiah 33:3, Proverbs 3:5,6); and, serenity (Philippians 4:7).

Serenity is at the root of contentment. (Isaiah 26:3) Christ prayed. Do you?

LOVE CHRIST SUPREMELY Phil 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death…

“To know” is to know in the most intimate, personal way. It speaks of love. It can speak of the physical relationship of love between a husband and wife. I.e. “Adam knew his wife…and she conceived.” On a higher plane–a spiritual plane–it speaks of the relationship of a saved person and his or her Lord. It is a spiritual, intimate and personal knowledge–a love. This is eternal life–to know God. (John 17:3) Everyone, whether lost or saved, will be somewhere forever. Everyone will live forever. Eternal life for the Christian is not a quantity; rather, it is a quality. It is love–for God and from God.

Love for people, praying, preaching, pastoring, programs, plans, or personal soul winning will not sustain you. Only, a love for Christ will sustain you.

Why should we love Him? For two reasons: 1) because we are commanded. (Deuteronomy 6:4,5) 2) Because we are constrained. His love for us constrains us–”no one ever cared for me like Jesus.”

The mother of a young teen was horribly scarred by a fire. Her face was terribly distorted by the burns. A school mate of the teen said, “If she was my mother, I would be so shamed to be seen in public with her.”

The teen tearfully retorted, “I love her. She received those scars a long time ago when she saved me from a fire. She covered me in a blanket and carried me to safety. So, I love her because of her scarred face. How can I be ashamed of her?”

We should Love Jesus because He saved us from far worse than a house fire. He saved us from Hell fire.

“Lovest thou me…”, He asks. If you love me, serve me (feed my sheep). Love must precede service. Love must prompt service. Without love–no service matters. (I Corinthians 13:1-3) Without love, no service succeeds.

Does anything create such contentment as love? Jacob worked an additional seven years–without complaint–for the right to marry Rachel. Genesis 29:20, “20 And Jacob served seven years for Rachel; and they seemed unto him but a few days, for the love he had to her.”

Love for Christ produces such contentment. Do you love Him?

LEARN TO REJOICE–ANYHOW! Phil 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.

You cannot always rejoice in people, things and circumstances; however, you can always rejoice in the Lord: Who He is, What He has done; and, what He has promised.

Not only can we rejoice in every thing, we are commanded to give thanks–to rejoice–in everything. For this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

There are two ways to interpret I Thessalonians 5:18 “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1) Give thanks for everything because whatever happens is the Will of God. 2) Give thanks. Because, it is God’s will that we be thankful. Not scornful! Not bitter.

In all that Job suffered, he did not complain or become bitter; rather, he recognized that he should be thankful for the good and the bad –since both come from the hand of God.

How many preachers have preached that “we should be thermostats–not thermometers.” A thermometer is influenced by the environment. A thermostat affects the environment. A thermometer-type Christian is influenced by people, things and circumstances. A thermostat-type Christian controls the effect that people, things or circumstances have in his or her life.

Faith that believes that everything that happens happens in God’s Will and purpose is a contented faith. Paul states in Philippians 1:12 “But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel.” What contentment! Paul had this contentment–so can you.

LIMIT NEGATIVE INPUT–LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE Phil 4:8,9 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

As a man thinketh–so is he. In West Virginia we say, “What is in the bucket comes out the spout.” Put good things in; and, good things will come out.

So many preachers are so negative! So cynical. So bitter! It is sin. It reveals a major defect in their spiritual development.

You cannot keep the birds of bitterness and negativity from flying over your head–BUT, you can keep them from building a nest–a three story condominium–in your hair!

Have you ever considered that everything in the above verse that we are to “think on” describes the character and nature of Christ? Christ is true–yea, He is Truth, Christ is honest, Christ is just, Christ is pure, Christ is lovely–yea, He is the altogether lovely One,” Christ is of a good report–the Gospel!, Christ is virtuous and praiseworthy.

Want contentment? Peace? Isaiah 26:3, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” Meditate on the Word of God–both the Living Word and the written Word; and, you will find contentment unto your souls.

Paul did. For him to live “was Christ.”

LET GOD BE GOD! Phil 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

There is no problem that you and God cannot handle. No problem! You take care of the little things–with His help. Refer the bigger ones entirely to the Lord. And, you will do all right.

Learn to be content. Learn that “satisfaction, serenity and a sanctified self-confidence produced by growth in the grace and knowledge of God.” Learn what Paul learned–before it is too late. Learn to: Let others help, Lowliness, Leave your burdens where they belong, Love the Lord supremely, Learn to rejoice, Limit negative input, and Let God be God.